Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis

Credentialing Board®

CANDIDATE
HANDBOOK

Qualified Behavior Analyst

(QBA®)

Updated October 2021

Table of Contents

QABA Purpose and Values 3

QBA Credential 3
QBA Requirements 4-5
Application and Exam Process 5-7
Fees______________________________________________________________________6
Exam Retake Policy__________________________________________________________8
Renewal Requirements 8
Approved CEUs_____________________________________________________________9
Grievance/Complaint Policies 10-13
Appeals Process 12
Non‐discrimination Policy 13
ADA Policy_________________________________________________________________13
Privacy Statement___________________________________________________________14
Ethics Policy 14-34

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 QABA PURPOSE
The purpose of the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board is to ensure the competency of
professionals who provide therapeutic intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and related
disabilities. Through credentialing, the Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board strives to be the
standard-bearer for providers at all levels of applied behavior analysis. Additionally, our goal is to improve
coordination between providers, families, and insurers to establish seamless delivery of effective therapeutic
services.

QABA VALUES

We uphold the highest standards of effective behavioral interventions by adhering to our core values:

● To work with a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, appreciating diversity among all stakeholders;
● To act ethically and honestly toward our certificants, colleagues and community;
● To uphold quality and excellence in service to our professionals.
● To improve the lives of individuals with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and related disabilities by
increasing the availability of qualified behavioral analysts.

QABA CREDENTIALS

The QABA Board credentials provide 3-tiers of behavior analytic support. This 3-tiered model is unique
among credentialing boards. The 3 tiers include:

• The ABAT is an entry-level interventionist who typically serve as direct care one-to-one instructors.
• The QASP-S is a mid-tier interventionist who serves as an experienced instructor and may also
provide training to staff/families, monitor the progress of goals and objectives, and provide
supervision to entry-level staff.
• QBAs are mastery level interventionists who provide ABA program oversight, supervision,
assessment, analysis of data, goal development, and other aspects of treatment and ethical
integrity.

QBA CREDENTIAL
The QBA credential certifies that certificants have demonstrated master’s-level achievement in applied
behavior analysis or a related health service profession, advanced applied skills through supervised
fieldwork experience, professional integrity and decision-making maturity through supervisor
recommendation, and competency in subject matter including autism and ABA and ethical/legal
standards have been assessed through written examination.
The purpose of the exam is to test the knowledge, skills, and abilities in competency of professionals who
provide supervision and therapeutic intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and related
disabilities; to determine if a candidate demonstrates full competence/qualification as a professional (to protect
the safety and welfare of the public).

Updated June 2021

Supervision Requirements
For the first 1,250 hours of fieldwork, the QBA is required to meet with his or her supervisor for
5% of the time they provide behavior analytic services every 3-month period. Supervision can be
done remotely, using a HIPAA compliant video conferencing program; however, one contact
must be one-to-one in-person for a minimum of 1 hour. 50% of supervision hours may occur in a
group setting.
Supervision must be documented using the QABA supervision log and verification form located
on the QABA website (qababoard.com).
Valid Supervisors:
• QBA
• BCBA/BCBA-D

• An individual who is licensed or certified in another health profession, including behavior

analysis, who is practicing within the scope of the competency of their license/certificate.

If the in-person supervision requirement places a hardship on the service provider or

supervisor, or jeopardizes the provision of services, contact [email protected] to request a
variance of this requirement. All variances are reviewed by the QABA Board for approval.

Once the QBA has passed the competency exam and have been certified, the QBA does not require ongoing
supervision.

QBA REQUIREMENTS
Candidates must:
• Pay the $350 non-refundable application and exam fee ($225 for the retake fee)
• Possess a minimum of a master’s degree from an accredited institution in a related field
• Must have completed 270 hours of approved coursework (18 semester credits), including 8 hours of
supervision coursework (master’s degree in ABA, Psychology, Special education, or a related field). 5
hrs. of coursework must be in ethics and 20 hours in autism core knowledge.
• 1250 Hours of Supervised Fieldwork with a minimum of 750 hours in the role of oversight or
supervision (FBA, reviewing data, training staff or parents, etc.)
• Recommendation from their supervisor
• Background Check Attestation Form completed by the candidate’s employer indicating that there
have been no changes to the candidate’s background. If the candidate does not have an ongoing
background check, one will be conducted by the QABA Credentialing Board through our 3rd party
company, SecureTrac
• Successful passing of the exam proctored by Examity
• Agree to the Code of Ethics and renewal requirements
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 • Final review of all eligibility criteria at QABA® Board meeting before formal credentialing
• Placement on our Public Registry
• Bi-Annual Renewal required – Verification of required 32 CEs, continued supervision, criminal
background check and agreement to code of Ethics

Examination
Prior to accessing the QBA examination, all coursework and training requirements, recommendation,
fieldwork and supervision requirements will need to be completed, verified, and approved through the
online process. The candidate will have 3 hours to complete the exam. The exam will be proctored by our
third-party company, Examity. All candidates must complete an Examity profile for identification purposes.

APPLICATION PROCESS

For initial application for the QBA, candidates should:

1. Go to https://www.qababoard.net/login The link will request the candidate to log in and upload:
• 270-hour coursework certificate from an approved provider; or
• credit from college/university classes as a portion of the required coursework. Send transcripts
with the course number circled along with your application; however, be prepared to provide
course curriculums or additional information on courses if requested.
• government issued ID
• background attestation form completed by the current employer (forms can be printed at
www.qababoard.com/) or from a third party if the employer does not provide the attestation
form
3. Pay the non-refundable application fee, or enter the coupon code provided by your employer
4. Enter the name and email address of your supervisor for both the fieldwork and recommendation requests

5. Once the enrollment application has been reviewed and approved, candidates should schedule their exam
using the correct time zone

It is important that all instructions be carefully followed to avoid invalidating the application process.
Candidates must reschedule the exam and pay another fee if there are errors that invalidate the application.

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270 hours of coursework must have the following minimum requirements:

Subject Hours
Autism Spectrum Disorders 20
Legal, Ethical, Professional 20
considerations
Core Principals of ABA 35
Antecedent Interventions 30
Skill Acquisition 40
Behavior Reduction 30
Interventions
Data Collection Analysis 30
Assessment 45
Training and Supervision 20
Total 270

QBA FEES:

Application: $350
Renewal: $200
Exam retake: $225
Printed Certificate: $25

EXAM PROCESS
Online testing is convenient and allows for a quiet and easy examination experience. Please read all of the
testing rules and requirements beforehand to ensure that the entire process goes smoothly. The exam is
live-proctored by our independent partner Examity ® to ensure that the online test is fair and valid.
Examity’s software works on most modern desktop or laptop with a webcam and microphone. A secure
and high-speed internet connection is vital to exam navigation. There will be a speed test prior to the
exam to check the candidate’s technology.

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The QBA examination consists of 125 questions. 100 questions live and scored, while 25 of the questions
(pretest questions) are not scored. There is no indication of which questions are not scored, so it is very
important to answer all 125 questions to the best of your ability.
Unlike scored live exam questions, unscored pretest questions are newly created pilot questions that provide
helpful information regarding difficulty level and overall question quality. Pretest questions are not used for
scoring purposes. Instead, they are analyzed for psychometric performance and provide verification that newly
developed questions are performing acceptably within defined parameters prior to being implemented as live
exam questions.
After the exam, candidates will have exam results immediately.
After QABA has reviewed the video and validated the passing score, the candidate will receive a congratulatory
email with a request to complete a brief survey in order to give QABA feedback regarding the test and exam
process. Once the survey is submitted, a certificate will be unlocked under the enrollment application and
accessible for printing. Passing candidates’ names are forwarded to the QABA Board for formal ratification, and
are then added to the public registry on qababoard.com.

Testing Logistics:
Exam Duration # of Questions Pass Score
QBA Exam 3.0 hours 125 72%

Testing Rules:
✓ must use a desktop or laptop computer only (No Chromebooks, tablets or phones
permitted)
✓ must use a computer with a microphone and webcam. The webcam, speakers, and
microphone must remain fully operational throughout the test
✓ the computer must be connected to a power source
✓ a minimum of 2 MBPS download/upload speed is required to take the exam; however,
we strongly recommend a speed of 5 MBPS. If the video feed is weak and is lost during
the exam, it is an automatic failure.
✓ candidate must be alone in the room
✓ no eating during the test, but one drink on the desk is allowed
✓ desk surface and floor area must be completely clear except for computer and one drink
✓ no leaving the seat or talking
✓ a mirror must reveal the front of the computer screen to the proctor at the beginning of
the exam.
✓ no headphones, dual monitors, or phone

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For exam or technical difficulties, please contact info@qababoard or call the office at (877)220-
1839.

EXAM RETAKE POLICY

Retakes of Qualified Behavior Analyst (QBA): Candidates who fail the exam on their first attempt may
schedule a second attempt immediately after the first attempt. If the applicant fails to pass on the second
attempt, a third exam may be scheduled 30 days after the second attempt. If needed, 30 days must elapse
between the third and fourth exam attempt. Candidate may not test more often than 4 times without one
year of their first exam attempt.

RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS
All candidates must renew every 2 years. Participants may renew within 60 days of the deadline and must
complete CEU and supervisor attestation information. Renewal fees apply. Participants who fail to renew will
forfeit the credential within 30 days of the deadline. To continue participation after forfeiture, individuals must
complete all the initial eligibility requirements again and pass the current test.
Candidates should use the intervals below to determine when to renew their credentials. There are two
deadlines for renewals, January 1 or July 1. Continuing education credits are due at the time of renewal.
Renewals can be done up to 60 days prior to the deadline by logging into the www.qababoard.com account. It is
the professional’s responsibility to update any information regarding credentials, personal information, and
renewals. Please note that a minimum of 25% of the hours must be live contact (in-person or online
seminar/training).

Initial Certification
Due for Renewal CEU Required In-person Ethics
or Renewal Date

April 1 – June 30, 2019 04/01/21 32 5 3

July 1 – Sept 30, 2019 07/01/21 32 5 3
Oct 1 – Dec 31, 2019 10/01/21 32 5 3
Jan 1 – March 30, 2020 01/01/22 32 5 3
April 1 – June 30, 2020 04/01/22 32 5 3
July 1 – Sept 30, 2020 07/01/22 32 5 3
Oct 1 – Dec 31, 2020 10/01/22 32 5 3

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 Jan 1 – March 30, 2021 01/01/23 32 5 3
April 1 – June, 2021 04/01/23 32 5 3
July 1 – Sept 30, 2021 07/01/23 32 5 3
Oct 1 – Dec 31, 2021 10/01/23 32 5 3

APPROVED CEUs

All CEUs must include a certificate of attendance with a signature and the printed name of the presenter.
Presenters must hold a master’s degree or above in a related field.

Type CEU Restrictions

National/state ABA or related 1 per clock hour None

field associations (i.e., ABAI)
College/University coursework 1 per clock hour None
Approved QABA provider 1 per clock hour None
Seminar/webinar/workshop 1 per clock hour 2 CE
non-pre-approved QABA
provider
Participation in QABA
committee or development 1 per clock hour 2 CE
Poster presentation 1 per poster 1 CE
Authorship article/ 3 per paper/presentation 3 CE
presentation

*College/University coursework is subject to QABA approval. Transcripts and curriculum must be provided prior to submission for
CE credit. Only subject matter specifically addressing the field of ABA, special education, autism, developmental disability and
similar subjects will be considered.

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 GRIEVANCE/COMPLAINT POLICIES
QABA strives to uphold best practice and integrity in all policies and procedures. Candidates,
credentialed participants, and coursework or CEU providers are required to uphold the ethical
guidelines and all policies and procedures established by the QABA Board.
All complaints and grievances are confidential. All parties remain anonymous unless a legal or ethical
violation is substantiated. For cases where confidentiality poses a risk to the public, notifications to
third party, legal authorities and/or employers may be necessary. Frivolous complaints made by fellow
certificate holders or providers are subject to disciplinary action by the QABA Board.
I. Grounds for sanctions include, but are not limited to:
A. Conviction of a felony or crime of moral turpitude under federal or state law
B. Gross negligence, willful misconduct, or ethical violation in performance of services under
QABA certification
C. Fraud, falsification, or misrepresentation of qualifications or candidacy, renewals applications,
or regulated policy rules of QABA
D. Falsification or misrepresentation of any information requested by QABA, including making a
frivolous complaint, causing delay or disruption to investigations, or being non-responsive to
requests from the QABA Board
E. Misrepresentation of credentials to public or logo in advertising or public domain
F. Cheating on an exam or assisting others to cheat on an exam
G. Failure to respond to an allegation within 15 business days

II. Complaints regarding the exam process: Any complaints or issues related to the exam process,
technical difficulties, or rescheduling should be sent in writing to [email protected] or called
into the office at 877.220.1839. Most issues can be resolved quickly via telephone or in
coordination with Examity. Any issues or exam red flags that cannot be resolved by administration
will be forwarded to the preliminary review committee.

III. Complaints regarding any credentialed member or QABA coursework or CEU provider should be
made in writing to the QABA Board president. For additional information or help in determining if a
complaint is applicable, please contact [email protected] or call the office at 877.220.1839.

All complaints must be in writing through the complaint form on the website qababoard.com. NOTE: all
information must include the name, title, and credential of the person submitting the complaint; the
name of the person/company and credential of the person being reported; all relevant information and a
detailed description of the event, including dates and timelines; all contact information, including phone,
email, and written correspondence for parties noted in the complaint.
NOTE: Every effort to resolve employee/employer/supervisor issues should be made through supervision
and employer channels PRIOR to filing a complaint. The only ethical issues that should be referred to the
board are those that affect credentialing and maintenance of a credential.
IMPORTANT: Complaints should not be filed until all corroborating evidence is available and/or other
investigations are complete including, but not limited to, on-going written internal discipline counseling

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documents (signed by both parties), employer or other agency investigations and dispositions of those
investigations, corroborating complaints from other witnesses, etc.
A. Preliminary Review: All complaints are reviewed by the board president and secretary.
Preliminary review is completed within 5 business days.

1. The complaint is determined to:

a. Be substantial and contain valid and sufficient information to justify a
discipline committee review
b. Be insufficient and returned for further information; or, dismissed as not
qualifying as an ethics/policy violation
c. Be more appropriate for administrative resolution through the QABA office

2. Disciplinary Committee Review: A valid and substantial complaint is investigated by a

Disciplinary Review Committee (DRC) comprised of the board president, secretary and
one additional board member. The committee forwards a report and
recommendation to the QABA Board upon completion of all relevant investigation
materials.

a. Notification is made within 5 days of substantiated review to the certificant or

provider whose conduct is in question. Email, phone and/or written
correspondence and all contacts are documented in a written log of all data. If
the recipient does not respond within 5 business days, a certified letter is
issued. The respondent has 15 days upon receipt to respond. All participants
and providers are responsible for maintaining current and correct information
in the QABA system. Incorrect or out-of-date information is not the
responsibility of the QABA Board; however, every effort will be made to
contact all parties. Failure to respond within 15 days will result in automatic
suspension of the certificate. During suspension, individuals cannot represent,
provide services nor bill services utilizing the credential. Employers will be
immediately notified upon suspension. Further failure within an additional 15
days to respond to a suspension notice will result in revocation following a
board vote and notification to the employer. Reinstatement may be
requested in writing up to 30 days following the revocation to the QABA
Board President, along with thorough justification and data to support the
reinstatement. The investigation timeline procedures will continue at that
time.
b. Employers, employees, or related parties to any complaint may be contacted
to substantiate information.

B. Board Review: All complaints forwarded by the DRC are reviewed by a quorum of QABA Board
members.

1. Determination is made upon completion of all investigation materials and reports.

Final determination is not completed until all legal processes are fulfilled, if applicable.
Final determinations for certificates or provider status may result in the following:

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 a. Caution/warning along with counseling
b. Code compliance or training through voluntary professional development
c. Suspension for a specific period of time or until completion of specific
training, supervision, or code/policy correction is made
d. Revocation: the participant or provider is immediately removed from active
status and listed as revoked after the appeals process
e. Dismissal: after thorough investigation, the board concludes that the
complaint is unsubstantiated based on evidence provided
f. Voluntary surrender of certificate or provider status: if completed before the
final determination, the file is sealed and the certificate or provider is
removed from the roster without comment
2. Determination results/sanctions are provided to the respondent or provider through
written notice within 5 business days of final board quorum vote. Revocation of the
credential is permanent and certificants and providers may not re-apply.
3. Complainants are notified in writing of the results of their filed complaint.

IV. Appeals Process: Appeals may be filed to the QABA Board within 90 days of receipt of the board’s
determination. A request to begin an appeal must be made in writing to the board president;
however, all pertinent documentation is not required in order to begin the appeals process. The
Appeals Committee (AC) is comprised of 2 board members who were not on the Disciplinary
Review Committee (DRC) for the case, and at least one QABA Advisory Board member who has no
association with the provider nor the employer of the respondent/provider. Respondents have the
right to be present or via video conference with the committee and may include their own legal
counsel. The timeline to finalize an appeal will vary; some appeals may resolve within weeks, while
others may take longer depending upon documentation availability, legal proceedings, and depth
of required investigation.
COMPLAINT / GRIEVANCE TIMELINE OF ACTION
Preliminary Review → Disciplinary Review Committee → QABA Board Review → Appeals Committee

(President, Secretary) (President, Secretary, 1 Board (QABA Board quorum) (2 Board members not
member) on DRC and 1 advisory
member)

DRC has 5 days to notify (email and Board receives DRC

Appeal may be filed to
phone) respondent of charge; 30 recommendation within
5 days to assess the board within 90 days
days to notify board of an open 15 days following all
of board determination
investigation relevant materials

60 days to vote on
determination; Appeals Committee
respondent receives receives appeal with
5 days to receive response; if no evidence and begins
notification of results in 5
response, DRC sends certified letter investigation
business days;
complainant receives
results

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 Appeals Committee
Board revokes credential
submits justification
after 30 days of no
report to board for re-
Automatic suspension after 15 days response. Respondent
determination; board has
of no response. Board is notified; may submit
30 days to make a
employer is notified reinstatement request to
determination after
QABA Board president
receipt of Appeals
within 30 days.
Committee report

Appeals Committee
Additional 15 days following
notifies all parties within
notification of suspension to respond Employer is notified
5 business days of board
before board votes to revoke
decision

*Deadlines may be extended for gathering additional data or legal/ professional board resolutions prior to
the QABA final determination.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
The QABA Credentialing Board will not discriminate against applicants, candidates or
certificants on the basis of race, color, gender (including gender identity and gender
expression), religion, age, marital status, registered domestic partner status, disability,
socioeconomic or ethnic background, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status
or national origin, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The QABA Credentialing Board will not tolerate any form of discrimination and will take
appropriate disciplinary action, including potential termination, of any person determined to
have engaged in unlawful discriminatory conduct. Any candidate who believes that he or she
has been discriminated against should file a complaint to [email protected] . Complaints
may be lodged in writing or in person in the QABA office. Anyone filing a complaint will be
advised, of any investigation, action or resolution regarding the problem. These complaints
will be forwarded to the QABA Credentialing Board’s executive director.

ADA POLICY
QABA employs various options to accommodate those with special needs. These may include
text-to-speech capability and video conferencing. Candidates may also request special
accommodations here: http://www.qababoard.com/QABA‐accommodations.html

PRIVACY STATEMENT
The QABA Credentialing Board’s privacy policy ensures that all online information is password
protected, and written documentation is securely stored at QABA’s main office.
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Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis
Credentialing Board®

QABA ETHICAL
CODE OF
CONDUCT

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 QABA ETHICAL CODE of CONDUCT

INTRODUCTION

1.0 COMPLIANCE

1.1 Adherence to Code of Ethics

1.2 Ethical Responsibility

1.3 Ethical Dilemmas

2.0 COMPETENCE

2.1 Scope of Competence

2.2 Professional Development

2.3 Integrity

2.4 Impaired Certificants

3.0 PRIVACY/CONFIDENTIALITY

3.1 Confidential Information

3.2 Disclosure and Expressed Authorization

3.3 Inadvertent Disclosure of Confidential Communication

3.4 Informed Consent

3.5 Work Product

3.6 Maintaining Confidentiality

3.7 Confidential Communications After Termination of a Relationship

4.0 PROVISION OF SERVICE

4.1 Assessment

4.2 Explaining Results

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4.3 Specialty Consultation

4.4 Programming

4.5 Behavior Change Plans

4.6 Environmental Variables

4.7 Punishment Procedures

4.8 Restrictive Interventions

4.9 Protect from Harm and Reinforcers

5.0 RESPONSIBILITY TO CLIENTS AND CLIENTS RIGHTS

5.1 Identifying the Client

5.2 Clients Rights

5.3 Obligations as a Mandated Reporter

5.4 Third Party Involvement in Services

6.0 HUMAN RELATIONS

6.1 Avoiding Harm

6.2 Unfair Discrimination

6.3 Harassment

6.4 Professional Relationships

6.5 Multiple Relationships

6.6 Exploitation

6.7 Sexual Relationships and Treatment

6.8 Conflict of Interest

6.9 Clarification of Roles

6.10 Interruption and Termination of Services

7.0 SUPERVISION and TRAINING

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7.1 Guidelines

7.2 Supervisor to Monitor Performance

7.3 Informing the Client About Supervision

7.4 Supervision During a Crisis

7.5 Supervision Limitations

7.6 Supervisor Maintaining Active Certification

7.7 Supervisor Assisting Trainee with Certification Documentation

7.8 Fee for Supervision

8.0 RECORD KEEPING and FEES

8.1 Record Content/Record Context

8.2 Safeguarding of Records

8.3 Length of Record Keeping

8.4 Fees and Referrals Agreement

9.0 PUBLIC STATEMENTS

9.1 Accuracy and Adequacy/Completeness of Information

9.2 Citing Source and Copyright of Published Materials

9.3 Statement of Contractual Agreement

9.4 Advertisements and Announcements of Services

9.5 Statements on Behalf of Organizations/Places of Employment

10.0 RESEARCH

10.1 Obtaining Informed Consent in Research

10.2 Welfare in Research

10.3 Deception

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10.4 Debriefing

10.5 Research Data and Results

10.6 Plagiarism and Research Publication Acknowledgment

INTRODUCTION

The QABA Ethical Code of Conduct applies to all credentialed providers, applicants and
approved CE providers. In keeping with our QABA mission to establish the highest standard of
care and to empower all professionals who provide behavior intervention services to
individuals with autism spectrum disorders and related disorders, our Ethical Code of Conduct
is intended to provide guidance for certified professionals and their employers as to standards
of conduct within the field of professional behavior analysis. The goal is to provide a
framework that will promote ethical behavior and enhance professional judgment. The Ethical
Code of Conduct is necessary to ensure professionals take the reasonable steps to safeguard:
the client’s welfare and rights, a standard of care and treatment, professional conduct,
supervision, conflict resolution, appropriate training/research and other applicable
professional responsibilities. If the Ethical Code of Conduct does not directly resolve an ethical
dilemma, the certificant is to consult and determine what the prevailing decision would be
with other professionals engaging in a similar capacity and/or activity. The Ethical Code of
Conduct addresses ethics for all levels of certificants and applicants. Though some codes may
relate to a specific certificate, the ethical standards are a comprehensive and universal
guideline for the professional field and the responsibility of all levels of professional
development.

1.0 COMPLIANCE

1.1 Adherence to Code of Ethics

a. Certificants dedicate themselves to read, understand, and utilize the

Ethical Code of Conduct as a standard of care. Lack of knowledge of the
code of conduct does not excuse accountability.
b. Certificants recognize a duty to adhere to all laws, rules and regulations,

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 policies and ethical standards that apply to the practice of applied behavior
analysis.
c. Certificants follow the ethical codes and supervision standards as required
by other additional licenses, certifications, or memberships held. They abide
by pertinent laws, institutional rules, or professional behavior standards
within their provision of service.
1.2 Ethical Responsibility

a. If certificants are aware of any Code of Ethics violation by a fellow

certificant, they are responsible for informing the certificant of the
violation. If the unethical conduct continues, the certificant will report the
violation to the QABA board. Awareness of any violation by a fellow
certificant that involves neglect, endangerment, safety, or legal
consequences should be reported to the QABA board immediately and to
local authorities. Any certificants under professional/employer
investigations or facing legal charges should report to the QABA board
within three business days of becoming aware of the investigations and/or
charges.
1.3 Ethical Dilemmas

Concern over adherence to professional standards and/or compliance with

the QABA Ethical Code of Conduct will be reported to a supervisor/leadership
within the scope of service. When in doubt, it is best to review the code of
conduct and utilize supervision relationships for further discussion.
Discussion of individual situations provides learning experiences for all
professionals and ensures integrity of the profession.

2.0 COMPETENCE
2.1 Scope of Competence

a. Certificants practice within their scope of competence as established by

their education, training and experience. Any requests to provide services
outside of the certificant’s role are to be directed to a supervisor or qualified

19
 authority.
b. Paraprofessional certificants always provide services under supervision as
outlined in QABA Policies and Procedures and the Candidate Handbook.
c. Certificants submit qualified referrals to clients when asked to provide
services outside of their scope of competence or their current training. In
emergency situations, certificants consult with a supervisor and/or receive
training for the requested service but referrals are provided as soon as
possible.
2.2 Professional Development

Certificants maintain competence through continuing education requirements

and will self-initiate any additional training and education to provide the
highest level of best practice standards of the field.

2.3 Integrity

a. Credentialed professionals maintain the highest standards of professional

behavior and always act in the best interest of the client.

b. Certificants always demonstrate trustworthiness, honesty, fairness, and

sincerity.

c. Certificants uphold the principals of behavior analysis, utilizing scientific

methods for treatment and intervention.

d. Certificants engage with clients, colleagues, families, and stakeholders in

a manner that promotes honest and trustworthy working environments.

e. Certificants provide truthful, thorough, and accurate information to the

QABA board.

f. Certificants adhere to rules and regulations regarding examination and

testing procedures, audits, and safeguard any and all materials related to
examination and QABA materials.

g. Certificants provide accurate and prompt information to QABA regarding

application, certification and renewal. It is the responsibility of the
certificant to maintain current and accurate contact information, records,

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 up-to-date public registry and current employment status.

2.4 Impaired Certificants

Certificants cease treatment if there are physical, psychological or legal

factors impeding their ability to provide objective and effective treatment, or
if other issues render them ineligible to maintain the certificate. Consultation,
supervision, and transition of clients is to occur without delay. The certificant
is encouraged to seek the appropriate help to restore their work
preparedness.

3.0 PRIVACY/CONFIDENTIALITY
3.1 Confidential Information

a. All information regarding clients, identifying information, diagnosis,

assessment, treatment, and prognosis are confidential. Certificants are to
comply with all privacy and confidentiality rules in the state or country of
residence/practice. In the U.S., certificants follow the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) rules and/or individual state
rules/guidelines, whichever is more stringent. Outside of the U.S., if a country
has no existing privacy or confidentiality guidelines, certificants abide by the
minimum standards described in HIPAA laws and ensure the safeguarding of
the client’s privacy.
b. In countries other than the U.S., all communications and identifying
information in email, fax, or other written documents are to comply with
HIPAA and/or state laws and country of residence guidelines. Certificants utilize
appropriate security measures or encryption when transferring confidential
information.
c. All supervision through video recording or tele-supervision will be
compliant with state/country’s privacy and confidentiality laws, and HIPAA-
compliant where applicable.
d. Certificants keep confidential all QABA examination information, other
proprietary information and will prevent unauthorized disclosures of exam

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 information.
3.2 Disclosure and Expressed Authorization

Disclosure of confidential communication is prohibited unless such disclosure

is made by written or expressed authorization, or when it is mandated by law
to avoid serious threat to the health and safety of the client or any other
person.

3.3 Inadvertent Disclosure of Confidential Communication

Procedures to prevent inadvertent or unauthorized disclosure of confidential

information should be observed. In the event of unauthorized disclosure, the
client should be immediately notified of the confidentiality breach. Clients
are to also be informed of all procedures to prevent additional re-disclosure
and to mitigate any impact.

3.4 Informed Consent

a. Certificants obtain informed consent prior to conducting assessments,

treatment, consultative services, research, other professional services, or
any change in treatment

b. Informed consent will provide an explanation of the process, procedures

and/or assessment being conducted.
c. Informed consent will be provided in writing or approved electronic
signature form and maintained in the client’s file. Consent information is
expressed in language that is understandable to the client receiving services.
d. Informed consent is obtained only from the individual receiving services,
legal caregiver, or other person legally authorized to represent the client.
e. Consent to share any information is obtained in writing by clients for each
specific and individual incident; except where this information protects the
client from mortal harm or when required by law.
3.5 Work Product

All client-related work product remains confidential and archived up to 7

years after treatment or as indicated by HIPAA or state/country laws,
whichever is more stringent.

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 3.6 Maintaining Confidentiality

Certificants maintain confidentiality of all client information. Certificants

avoid social media content with client or client-related information, disclosure
of client records, data, photographs, videos and discussion of clients to
unauthorized individuals. Utilizing client information for clinical discussion or
presentations will only be on a need-to-know basis and all identifying
information should remain closely guarded.

3.7 Confidential Communications After Termination of a Relationship

All privileged communications between client and organization and/or

certificant remains confidential for the life of the client and after the client’s
death.

4.0 PROVISION OF SERVICE

4.1 Assessment

a. Certificants conduct and interpret only the assessments which are

supported by research and within their scope of practice, training and

educational understanding.
b. Certificants make recommendations based on results from assessments
supported through research to properly address the behavior and/or medical
diagnosis of the client. Results from these assessments, in conjunction with
environment and functional bases of behaviors, drive the recommendations
for treatment.
c. Certificants engage in data-based decision making.

4.2 Explaining Results

Certificants explain results of assessments and/or client progress in clear

terms that are jargon-free.

4.3 Specialty Consultation

Certificants advise clients to seek assessment and consultation with a

specialty outside the scope of behavior analysis when deemed a behavior
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 may relate to other factors. Specialties may include, but are not limited to:
medical, biological, developmental, speech and language, occupational
therapy, physical therapy, psychological, psychiatric, nutrition, or other
related disciplines. Certificants coordinate client care with other professionals
who may contribute to overall treatment efficacy.

4.4 Programming

a. Certificants develop treatment plans with input and consent from the
client and/or legal guardian.
b. Certificants ensure that proposed interventions are in alignment with the

client’s needs, values, beliefs and social significance.

4.5 Behavior Change Plans

a. Certificants tailor behavior programs to meet the needs of individual

clients.
b. Certificants develop clear and concise behavior change programs that
can be implemented by all team members. All behavior change programs
will be supported by data and/or research.
c. Certificants develop goals and objectives that have clear mastery
criteria.
d. Client consent is obtained prior to any alteration of a behavior change
program which significantly changes the direction of the treatment (e.g.,
change in behavior, change in procedures not previously discussed, addition
or modification of goals).
e. Language used in the behavior change program is written in a way that is
understandable to the client receiving services.
f. Behaviors and goals outlined in the behavior change program has a clear
definition and topography that is observable and measurable by all
members of the team.
g. Behavior plans provide clear goals necessary to client success, including
objectives, expectations and environmental factors.
4.6 Environmental Variables

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 a. Environmental variables are evaluated on an ongoing basis to promote the
best opportunity for success.
b. In order to increase treatment efficacy, certificants communicate with the
appropriate parties about any recommended modifications or alternatives to
the client’s environment.
4.7 Punishment Procedures

a. Reinforcement procedures are used prior to considering punishment

procedures.

b. If punishment procedures are necessary following evidenced-based

assessment, they are used in conjunction with a functionally equivalent
reinforcement procedure and an appropriate schedule of reinforcement.
c. If a punishment procedure is implemented, certificants monitor the
behavior to ensure the procedure is not having an adverse effect on the
client or behavior. If the client’s behavior puts the client’s health or safety at
risk, becomes more frequent or more intense, the procedure is immediately
removed.

4.8 Restrictive Interventions

Certificants first consider least restrictive interventions for the client.

4.9 Protect from Harm and Reinforcers

Certificants actively protect their client from harm throughout treatment.

Reinforcers are chosen so they are not potentially hazardous to the

client’s health or safety. In addition, client specific abilities are taken into

consideration when choosing reinforcers.

5.0 RESPONSIBILITY TO CLIENTS AND CLIENTS’ RIGHTS

5.1 Identifying the Client

a. Clients should consent to treatment prior to services and be provided

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 guidelines for services, confidential information, and rules for mandatory
reporting.
b. At the onset of services, certificants discuss and document criterion for
completion of services or criteria for discontinuing or transferring services.
5.2 Clients Rights

a. Certificants are aware of client’s legal and ethical rights and will act if
those rights have been violated or are at risk of violation.
b. Certificants do not engage in unfair discrimination based on age, race,
ethnicity, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic
status, religion, disability or any other basis prescribed by law.

c. Clients will receive accurate and thorough data, reports, and treatment
progress information that is jargon-free and presented in a clear and
comprehensible manner.
d. Clients may request the current valid credentials of any service provider.
5.3 Obligations as a Mandated Reporter

Suspected misconduct or known child, elder, and/or dependent adult

abuse/neglect is immediately reported to a supervisor or department
leadership, including additional agencies as required by the certificant’s
state or country’s laws.

5.4 Third Party Involvement in Services

a. At the onset of services provided at the request of a third party, a clear

explanation is provided to all parties as to the relationship, financial
responsibility to the client, and any potential conflicts and limits to
confidentiality.
b. Certificants’ ultimate responsibility lies with the care of the client. If a
conflict of interest arises with a third party, active steps are taken to resolve
the conflict, make all issues transparent, and transition services if no
resolution can be made in the best interest of the client.

6.0 HUMAN RELATIONS

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6.1 Avoiding Harm

Certificants serve within their scope of practice and take reasonable steps to
avoid harming their clients, supervisees and others with which they work.
Certificants take reasonable steps to minimize harm where it is unavoidable
and foreseeable.

6.2 Unfair Discrimination

Certificants will not engage in unfair discrimination based on age, race,

ethnicity, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic
status, religion, disability or any other basis mandated by law.

6.3 Harassment

Certificants will not engage in any type of behavior that is demeaning or

harassing, including any form of sexual harassment towards
subordinates, supervisees, clients, colleagues, or others with which they
engage in their professional capacity.

6.4 Professional Relationships

Certificants follow QABA’s Non-Discrimination Policy as found in the Candidate

Handbooks on the QABA website. Certificants refrain from unprofessional
conduct that contradicts general ethical standards of practice, and they
maintain professional boundaries while maximizing self-reliance and
independence in those they serve.

6.5 Multiple Relationships

Certificants avoid multiple relationships with clients, supervisors, supervisees,

colleagues, and stakeholders. They also avoid accepting gifts which could
negatively impact the certificants’ effectiveness, objectivity or competence in
their current function. Exceptions may be made in the case of cultural
consideration, where gifts (i.e., food, tokens of appreciation) may be
customary and to refuse would be insensitive. If a multiple relationship has
inadvertently occurred, the certificant takes reasonable steps to resolve the
matter and immediately contacts the supervisor or the supervisor’s superior.
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6.6 Exploitation

Certificants refrain from engaging in exploitative relationships with

subordinates, supervisees, clients, and any others they interact with in
a professional capacity.

6.7 Sexual Relationships and Treatment

Certificants avoid sexual or intimate relationships with subordinates,

supervisees, clients and their family members or those close to clients.

Relationships with former adult clients should be avoided for a minimum of

two years.

6.8 Conflict of Interest

Certificants make a reasonable attempt to identify their

personal/professional biases. They refrain from engaging in professional
roles where personal, scientific, legal, financial, or other interests impacts
their effectiveness, objectivity, or competence in their performance.

6.9 Clarification of Roles

Prior to the onset of services and thereafter where appropriate, certificants

identify the client’s rights, including parental/caretaker rights, scope of
services, role of all participants in services, and limits to confidentiality.

6.10 Interruption and Termination of Services

a. Certificants take reasonable steps to transfer client care if services are

interrupted or terminated and will make a reasonable effort to coordinate care
for all aspects of treatment.
b. Certificants provide sufficient notice (minimum 2 weeks) to clients and
employers when there is an impending change of service.
c. Certificants ensure any pending client-related documentation is
complete when terminating treatment and provide any information
post transition that serves in the best interest of the client’s care.
d. Discontinuation of services occurs if: the client requests termination, the
client is not benefiting from treatment, or the client no longer needs the
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 service. Referrals and alternative steps towards treatment are completed
prior to discontinuation if treatment is ineffectual unless precluded by the
client or third-party payors.

7.0 SUPERVISION and TRAINING

7.1 Guidelines

a. Paraprofessionals provide treatment only when receiving the

prescribed supervision as outlined in QABA Policies and Procedures.

b. Paraprofessionals who practice independently without the appropriate

supervision and/or knowingly assist other participants to obtain certification
or re-certification by fraud or deception may be grounds for immediate
revocation or denial of certification.

c. Only qualified professionals as outlined in the QABA Policies and

Procedures in Candidate Handbooks) may provide supervision. Supervision is
not delegated to unqualified individuals.
d. Supervisors do not need to be employed at the same site as supervisees,
but remain available in-person, via phone, email, or other appropriate
technology.
e. Supervisors and supervisees comply with the QABA regulations, as well as
institutional rules as they relate to supervision.

7.2 Supervisor to Monitor Performance

a. Supervisors take responsibility for those they supervise and ensure that
best practice is always adhered to, and that supervisees are in compliance
with the QABA policies and regulations, ethical code of conduct, and any
governing laws as it relates to treatment of client and client care.
b. Supervisors are responsible for the accuracy and effectiveness of
service provision, confidentiality, and professional development of each
supervisee.
c. Supervisors obtain client background information and clinical/medical
history for each client for which they supervise care.
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 d. Supervisors provide data-driven ethical treatment of all clients under
their supervision.
e. Supervisors provide ongoing clear and objective feedback in keeping
with the individualized goals and criteria for the supervisee at the onset of
supervision.
f. Supervisors ensure that all training is effectively designed and relevant to

the nature of the supervisee’s profession.

7.3 Informing the Client About Supervision

At the onset of treatment, supervisors ensure that clients are notified when
treatment is being provided by a trainee, and that services will include
supervisor oversight, including disclosure of all treatment-related
information.

7.4 Supervision During a Crisis

Supervisor have a crisis plan in place and are available in-person or by phone
to assist trainees in the event of a client emergency.

7.5 Supervision Limitations

a. Supervisors should not supervise family members, a spouse, or others

with whom they share a close relationship. In situations where this is
unavoidable, supervisors will contact the QABA board for guidance in
adhering to supervision requirements.
b. Supervisors refrain from supervising if they do not feel professionally,
psychologically or physically competent to provide appropriate supervision.
c. Supervisors do not require supervisees to disclose personal information

except when used to evaluate the supervisee’s competency to provide

services.
7.6 Supervisor Maintaining Active Certification

Supervisors maintain an active certificate, complete required CEUs, obtain the

appropriate training and relevant experience needed to effectively supervise
trainees. Supervisors are unable to supervise if their certification status

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 becomes inactive.

7.7 Supervisor Assisting Trainee with Certification Documentation

a. Prior to beginning supervision, supervisors ensure that agreements

are in place between the supervisor and supervisee that is clear, legally
binding, and identifies objective outcomes, criteria and termination
provisions. Both supervisor and supervisee maintain all documentation
of supervision at all times. The supervisor guides and assists the trainee
in correctly completing all required documentation. Only the time
periods that adhere to the restricted definition of supervision in QABA
Policy and Procedures are calculated toward fieldwork and
acknowledged on logs and verification forms.

7.8 Fee for Supervision

Contracts for independent supervision services will contain set fees that are
fair and commensurate with the services provided in that location, and with
objectively defined terms for services. Services are not provided under a barter
agreement, unless a clear and legally binding agreement is in place and
customary for the area where services are provided.

8.0 RECORD KEEPING and FEES

8.1 Record Content/Record Context

Certificants appropriately and accurately document all professional work, to

include progress, data, reports, disclosure of confidential information,
electronic communications, records in a manner consistent with scientific
and legal representation.

8.2 Safeguarding of Records

Certificants ensure that all records (electronic, written, and other medium) are
created, maintained, transferred, stored and disposed of in accordance with
applicable state/country laws, HIPAA regulations, and QABA Policies and
Procedures.

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 8.3 Length of Record Keeping

Certificants maintain all client records in a confidential manner for a

minimum of 7 years after termination of services or as otherwise required
by law.

8.4 Fees and Referrals Agreement

a. Certificants accurately state services, fees, provider information,

outcomes and any relevant information in order to correctly bill services.
b. Fees, gifts, or other benefits will not be accepted for professional
referrals, preferential advertising or any arrangement that establishes a
quid pro quo relationship.

9.0 PUBLIC STATEMENTS

9.1 Accuracy and Adequacy/Completeness of Information

Before disclosure of any public statement or information, certificants ensure

the accuracy, context of the information and completeness of the
communication.

9.2 Citing Source and Copyright of Published Materials

Certificants obtain consent of the publisher and/or copyright holder before

citing any published or copyrighted material. All sources will be properly cited.

9.3 Statement of Contractual Agreement

Any contractual agreement will be made in good faith, with clear objectives
and expectations of the certificant and the client.

9.4 Advertisements and Announcements of Services

a. Certificants will not make any misrepresentative

advertisement or announcement.
b. To avoid any misrepresentation or misunderstanding, certificants use
professional titles, degrees, and credentials that accurately represent their
education and training.

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 c. Certificants obtain permission before using QABA approved logos,
approved coursework or continuing education provider logos as outlined in
QABA Policy and Procedures and approved-provider policy and guidelines.
9.5 Statements on Behalf of Organizations/Places of Employment

Statements on behalf of organizations/places of employment are not made

without prior consent of the organization or place of employment.

10.0 RESEARCH
Research is to be conducted only after approval is obtained by an institutional
review board and will be conducted using approved

research protocol. The certificant’s primary goal is to maintain the client’s

welfare while contributing to scientific, educational, or applied value in a
significant way.

10.1 Obtaining Informed Consent for Research

Informed Consent is obtained from the participant(s) prior to conducting any

research. Informed consent includes the nature of the study, limits of
confidentiality, rights to decline, unforeseen consequences, the use of data
obtained and results of the study, the researcher’s contact information, and
any other requirements set forth by the institutional review board.

10.2 Welfare in Research

Research should not cause physical or psychological harm to participants,

students, clients, and/or subordinates. All attempts are made to minimize
discomfort or stress during participation.

10.3 Deception

a. Deception should be avoided when conducting research unless it has

been determined that the research will add scientific, educational, or
applied value and it would not be possible to conduct without the use of
deception. The researcher will consult with their educational institution
and/or other overseeing regulation board regarding deception and apply the
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 most stringent regulation.
b. Participants will not be offered excessive inducements for participating in or
reporting specific results.
10.4 Debriefing

All participants will be debriefed at the conclusion of their participation or as

indicated by the applicable regulation board. Debriefing includes but is not
limited to explaining the purpose of the study, reviewing results (when
available), answer the participant’s questions, and offer a copy of the research
publication once complete.

10.5 Research Data and Results

a. The researcher will not use misleading or fabricated data. Reasonable steps
to correct errors in data are taken if/when errors occur. Duplication of data is
not permissible when presented as new/original data.
b. The researcher makes his/her data available for verification purposes
when requested.
10.6 Plagiarism and Research Publication Acknowledgement

Plagiarism is unacceptable and appropriate citation must be used in

publications when using another’s work. Researchers will credit those who

added substantial contribution to the research when publishing his/her work.

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